North Cascades snow conditions are hazardous

Officials at the North Cascades National Park Service Complex are recommending that, because of hazardous snow conditions in the North Cascades, potential backcountry visitors should approach spring climbing routes with heightened awareness and training during the next several weeks.

In a press release, park managers suggested that the backcountry users contact the Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount, (360) 854-7245, and visit the Northwest Avalanche Center website, www.nwac.us, for current conditions before any subalpine or alpine wilderness travel.

Avalanche conditions have been especially dangerous this year, according to park geologist Jon Riedel, “because of the heavy late-winter accumulation of snow and temperatures in the 80s and 90s over the past few weeks.”